Morocco has been crowned champions of the U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after a dramatic final against Mali.
The match ended 0-0 after regulation and extra time, but Morocco emerged victorious in the penalty shootout, winning 4-2.
The penalty shootout was intense, with Morocco’s goalkeeper Zakaria Alaoui making crucial saves to seal the victory.
Mali dominated large spells of the match, but Morocco’s disciplined defence held firm. The hosts showed resilience and composure throughout, refusing to let the pressure overwhelm them.
The victory marks a significant milestone for Moroccan football, coming just two years after finishing as runners-up to Senegal in the same competition.
For Mali, the defeat was heartbreaking, particularly after their impressive display throughout the tournament. Despite the loss, the Malian side can hold their heads high, having reached their fifth final — a testament to their consistency at the youth level.
The tournament provided a thrilling showcase of emerging talent and fierce competition among Africa’s best U-17 teams. Morocco’s victory is a testament to their growing strength in youth football, and they will look to build on this success in future tournaments.